Six-Month Reflections

August 5, 2014

Whoa. Hold on. Today marked six months since we left Metro Detroit for Tokyo. So far on our journey, we’ve seen a lot, eaten more than a lot and, most importantly, learned a whole lot.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is to set realistic goals for yourself when it comes to adjusting. A fellow expat wife told me exactly what I needed to hear when I really needed to hear it the most: it’s OK to feel overwhelmed and want to sit inside all day. Just take baby steps. When she first moved to Japan, she didn’t jump right into intense language classes or clubs. Instead, she took herself out to lunch every day. Even if that hour was the only one she spent outside her house, it helped her to get more comfortable and learn to navigate the city on her own.

I still have to work at this . . . as evidenced by the pizza box by my front door. But I did go for a walk today and tomorrow I’ll go for another one.

Complimentary rain covers for purchases, foam padding for shopping bag handles, train track barriers, drink carriers with top handles, free gum syrup for cold drinks, free hand wipes before meals, bins for purses at restaurants, free grocery delivery, makeup shields for trying on clothes and buzzers to call over your server so they don’t feel like they have to babysit you . . . they all just make sense.

Your feet are your best mode of transportation.

Untanned, well cared for, porcelain skin is absolutely beautiful.

A balanced diet works just as well, if not better, than medicine.

Being a tourist also means being reverent and respectful when it’s called for.

“I’m foreign” does not equal “I’m sorry.”

Plastic food displays are to be appreciated, not mocked.

Eating unidentifiable animals is part of the fun. Bring TUMS.

Talk to your friends and family often. They worry about you.

Set a budget that allows you to travel, even if it means living in a closet.

Don’t try to do everything like you would “at home.” You have a new home.

Be proud of your culture, but be prepared to really learn what other people think of it.

This list is sure to grow and grow as our time here continues. I can’t wait.

As usual, beautifully said Petra! I continue to be impressed by your strength and resolve. To also be able to feel your experiences through your words is absolutely inspiring to everyone who loves you and is following you. I can’t believe it has already been 6 months since our Detroit Metro cry fest! Life is all about lessons. Thank you for sharing yours with us all and reminding us to reflect and continue growing. Keep reaching for the stars lady, you are an inspiration!!!!!!

Momma Debbie said it all, which is good cuz now I’m crying! You are amazing and Japan is lucky to have you and Craig there for awhile, just like you feel honored to be able to embrace their culture as well! We are never to stop trying, learning and stretching those wings!! You are so loved!